The Serene Hummingbird Garden In Arizona That's Too Beautiful For Words

There is something about the tiny and delicate hummingbird species that is simply irresistible. Perhaps it’s the high-frequency sound of their tiny-but-mighty wings flapping at rates of 12 beats per second in the larger species to as many as 80 beats per second in the smaller species. Whatever the allure is for you, you’ll love nothing more than a visit to this peaceful and serene hummingbird garden in Arizona.

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The Paton Center for Hummingbirds, located in Patagonia, is a hummingbird lover's delight. For years, these fast moving, tiny little creatures have called this garden home base — and it's easy to see why. The garden, originally part of the backyard residential paradise created by homeowers Wally and Marion Paton, is filled with natural flora, carefully selected blooming plants, and red feeders.

The Paton Center For Hummingbirds is a part of the Tucson Audubon Society and entrance to the park is always free. Designated viewing areas with cozy bench seating are placed around the property.

Facebook/Tucson Audubon's Paton Center for Hummingbirds

It's easy to spend a day here, just watching the zippy litte birds zoom around the garden, seeming to sample each and every available source of food. Hummingbirds can have tops speeds of up to 34 mph, and if they're diving, that speed can top out at 49 mph. With the virtual buffet available in the backyard at the Paton, it's unlikely they're flying anywhere near those speeds.

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When is the best time to visit the Paton Center for Hummingbirds to see the most hummingbirds? Viewing is best in the spring months of March through May, and then again from August through October during migration season. So... now is a great time to go take a peek at them in this delightful garden setting.

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If visiting, you'll find a helpful kiosk near the parking area, as well as some interpretive signage placed throughout the property. Some things to know before you go: there is no admission fee, however a sugar fund donation box is available should you want to contribute. If you happen to spot an empty feeder, don't fret. The feeders are filled every single morning, and then are periodically checked throughout the day. It's simply impossible to keep them all full, all of the time and the overseers are on top of it.

Also be sure to seek out the center's newest addition: the Richard Grand Memorial Meadow, filled with dense vegetation and lovely viewing opportunities.

Are you absolutely mesmerized by hummingbirds (like we are!)? This is a very peaceful and serene place to see them in a lovely garden setting!

The Paton Center For Hummingbirds is located at 477 Pennsylvania Ave., Patagonia, AZ 85624. It’s open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Admission is free (but donations are accepted). Learn more on the official website.